Fireworks as APC flags off campaigns in Kaduna

By Jude Opara

The ancient city of Kaduna has been agog as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) officially flagged of its campaigns for the 2027 general elections.

As early as 7am, the city was already a beehive as thousands of supporters and party officials from all parts of the country struggled to gain access to the Ranchers Bees Stadium, venue of the rally.

Wearing all kinds and colours of branded uniforms, the excited supporters virtually took over every part of the six thousand capacity stadium.

In fact, the excitement inside the stadium was as entertaining as what was obtainable outside as youths and women groups gathered in groups chanting different songs in praise of their particular political godfather.

Earlier, governor of Kaduna State, Sen. Uba Sani had on the mega rally received thousands of supporters, including state governors, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC and other top political stakeholders.

Some of the supporters had embarked on a pre-campaign solidarity walk across the streets of Kaduna in what looked more like a show of strength organised by the PCC, Support Group Directorate led by Silas Agara.

The procession, which commenced around Savannah Bank area, proceeded towards the Government House, where the delegation was received by the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, before returning to the APC State Secretariat.

The streets are equally wearing new looks as the different flags bearing different inscriptions in support of President Bola Tinubu have dominated every available space, just as several drummers in and singers are trying to outdo each other, all in solidarity with President Tinubu.

Governor Sani, while emphasising the importance of political participation, unity and sustained engagement with citizens ahead of the forthcoming election, lauded the PCC Support Group Directorate for a job well done.

“We welcome the support group leaders and members to Kaduna State. Your presence demonstrates your commitment to the political process and your willingness to engage citizens on the direction of our country.

“President Bola Tinubu has continued to pursue policies and programmes aimed at addressing Nigeria’s challenges and laying the foundation for sustainable development. We recognise the importance of the ongoing reforms and the need to communicate their objectives and impact to Nigerians.

“Kaduna State will support President Tinubu and vote massively for him in recognition of his achievements. We encourage our supporters to remain united, peaceful and committed to engaging the people as we prepare for Saturday’s rally”.

Also speaking, the PCC Support Group Directorate leader, Silas Agara highlighted the importance of bringing support groups together and coordinating their activities before the campaign rally.

The former deputy governor of Nasarawa state commended Governor Sani for receiving the delegation as well as for the efforts he put in place to host the rally.

“Today’s solidarity walk demonstrates our commitment to organising and coordinating support groups ahead of the campaign. We have brought together members from different groups to demonstrate unity of purpose and strengthen our collective participation in the political process.

“We appreciate Governor Uba Sani for receiving us and providing an opportunity for engagement as we prepare for Saturday’s rally. This mobilisation is part of our responsibility to ensure that support groups are organised, active and ready to participate in the campaign.

“Our task goes beyond carrying flags and participating in processions. We must engage citizens, communicate the policies and programmes of the administration, and ensure that Nigerians understand the issues at stake. We are determined to work together, strengthen our structures and sustain our mobilisation efforts ahead of the elections,” he said.